2014 DI Top Units: Defense

D-Midfield — Senior John LoCascio (2G, 6A) emerged as one of the best LSMs in the sport in ’13. He has an incredible stick, is impressive in transition, gobbled up 85 groundballs and was responsible for a staggering 53 caused turnovers. His efforts got him third-team All-America status. Senior Mark Jackson returns as the primary shortstick d-middie, while fellow senior Remington Pope has played both longstick and shortstick during his time in Philadelphia.

Close D — A veteran group led by seniors Chris Conroy and Chris Piccirilli; Conroy is the No. 1 cover man and was named All-Big East a season ago. Piccirilli (5G, 2A) is a tall, rangy defender who has a knack for pushing transition. Junior Christian Kolderup is the team’s most improved player, while highly touted freshman Danny Sweeney could push for time right away.

Goal — Junior Reed Carlson earned the starting job during the 2013 campaign and became a stable presence for the Wildcats. Carlson posted a save average of 48% and gave up just more than 10 goals per game.